2. Jodie Meeks
Jan 3, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Jodie Meeks (20) is defended by Utah Jazz players Enes Kanter (0), Derrick Favors (15) and guard Alec Burks (10) at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
13.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 44.3% field goal shooting, 39.6% 3-point shooting, 13.6 PER, 31.8 minutes per game. It’s a stat line no one could have seen coming, save for Meeks himself. And it’s a stat line filled entirely with personal bests, save for his three-point shooting percentage, which was eclipsed only by 2010-11 season where he shot 0.1% better from beyond the arc. Save for Nick Young, Meeks has been the Lakers best and most consistent player this season. He never does it in a flashy sense, but always finishes the night in double digits with a handful of three pointers made.
With Meeks specific skill set (long-range bomber), he could be a highly sought after player. With just a $1.5 million cap hit this season, just about every team in the league could make a push for him. Despite likely being a half-year rental, Meeks might be the best chance the Lakers have at getting a first round. However, much like many others on the roster, Meeks seems to embrace his role in Los Angeles, and if the Lakers are committed to D’Antoni, he’s a key piece for their future.